BoilerFaultCodes.com
F.24 High Lockout

Your boiler has shut down because the water inside is heating up much faster than it can be moved around the system, usually due to a blockage or a pump issue.

Call an engineer soon

Book a Gas Safe engineer within 24–48 hours. Your boiler may be unsafe or could break down completely if left.

Technical description: Safety switch-off – temperature rise too fast

What causes this fault?

This fault occurs when the heat exchanger gets too hot because the water isn't flowing away from it quickly enough. The most common reasons are a failing pump that can't push the water through or a build-up of sludge and debris blocking the internal pipework. In some cases, it can also be caused by air trapped in the system or a faulty sensor misreading the temperature.

This issue often comes to light when turning the heating back on for autumn, as pump components can seize up after being idle over the summer.

Typical repair cost £150-£350 (including labour)

DIY fix possible

Ensure all radiator valves (TRVs) are fully openCheck that the boiler pressure is between 1.0 and 1.5 barPress the reset button once to see if the fault clears

Find a Gas Safe engineer

Search the official register for a qualified engineer in your area.

Gas Safe Register →

Protect yourself from future repair bills

A boiler cover plan would cover faults like F.24 — no call-out fees, no surprises.

Top rated
OpenFix
Boiler & heating care plans
Get a quote →
Hometree
from £12.95/month
Get a quote →
HomeServe
from £8.00/month
Get a quote →

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Could it be time for a new boiler?

If repair costs are adding up, a new energy-efficient boiler could be the smarter long-term choice.

UK's #1 online installer
Boxt
Fixed-price online quotes. Next-day installation.
Get a free quote →
Heatable
Instant online boiler quotes from £1,499.
Get a free quote →
iHeat
Fast installation. Price match guarantee.
Get a free quote →

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Related fault codes